June 10, 2025

Cetera Launches Dedicated RIA and Branches Channel to be Led by Wealth Management Industry Veteran Jen Hanau

Press Room Cetera Launches Dedicated RIA and Branches Channel to be Led by Wealth Management Industry Veteran Jen Hanau

Cetera's fifth and newest dedicated channel will support Independent RIAs, its owned W-2 RIA businesses and the supported independence branches model

SAN DIEGO, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Cetera today announced the launch of its Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) and Branches Channel, further expanding Cetera's commitment to delivering tailored solutions for advisors choosing to operate as an independent RIA, within Cetera's W-2 RIA models or in Cetera's supported independence model, which has more than 40 branches nationwide.

Seasoned wealth management executive Jen Hanau has been hired as the RIA and Branches Channel Leader, bringing more than two decades of experience in advisor recruitment, platform development, and strategic growth to Cetera.

The new RIA and Branches Channel will manage Cetera's independent RIA services, W-2 employee-based RIA models, and supported independent businesses, providing advisors with flexible affiliation models and robust support to grow their practices. This initiative reflects Cetera's ongoing investment in the RIA and supported independence spaces and its dedication to empowering advisors with the tools and resources needed to grow and thrive in today's dynamic financial services industry.

Cetera's RIA and Branches Channel has more than 600 advisors overseeing approximately $33.5 billion in total client assets as of March 2025. The new RIA and Branches Channel encompasses Cetera's multiple offerings within communities, including:

  • Avantax Planning Partners – a tax-focused, hybrid W-2 RIA model that partners with CPA firms to provide their clients with holistic wealth management services built on comprehensive tax and financial planning.
  • Cetera Investors – a network of more than 40 branch offices enabling financial advisors to operate independently, backed by the infrastructure, compliance, and operational support of a Cetera-managed branches model.
  • Cetera Blueprint – a unique community that supports Cetera advisors in realizing the benefits of owning their own RIA with the assistance of an experienced partner, as well as advisors who are on the path to building an RIA.
  • The Retirement Planning Group (TRPG) – a fee-only, W-2 RIA model providing clients with wealth management services through comprehensive planning.

"The launch of our RIA and Branches Channel marks a significant milestone in Cetera's evolution, underscoring our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of advisors and clients," said Cetera Wealth Management President Todd Mackay. "Jen Hanau's extensive experience and visionary leadership make her the ideal choice to spearhead this channel, and we are confident that under her guidance, our RIA and Branches Channel will set new standards for excellence and innovation."

Hanau joins Cetera from Mariner, where she served as National Managing Director of the firm's independent channels. In that role, she was instrumental in expanding the platform and enhancing its full-service support model, focused on helping advisors deliver exceptional client experiences. Prior to Mariner, Hanau held leadership positions at Fidelity Investments and Charles Schwab, with a focus on advisor recruitment and consulting on the benefits of the RIA model.

"I'm honored to lead Cetera's RIA and Branches Channel and am excited to build a platform prioritizing clients' best interests," said Hanau. "Cetera's commitment to innovation and advisor support aligns perfectly with my passion for empowering advisors to achieve their professional goals while delivering exceptional service to their clients."

Hanau will be responsible for developing and executing sales strategies, leading client-facing teams, and driving business growth through innovative and collaborative efforts. Hanau's hiring reflects Cetera's dedication to attracting and retaining top talent.

The new RIA and Branches Channel joins Cetera's existing channels – the Advisor Channel, Institutions Channel, Large Enterprise Channel, and Tax & Accounting Channel, each of which are comprised of unique communities designed to foster collaboration among like-minded advisors.

About Cetera
Cetera Financial Group is the premier financial advisor Wealth Hub, empowering independent advisors and institutions with personalized support, flexible affiliation models, and end-to-end growth solutions. Home to approximately 12,000 advisors and institutions, Cetera's multi-channel ecosystem enables financial professionals to grow, scale or transition their businesses on their own terms.

Unlike traditional IBDs, Cetera offers true choice – blending modern technology, integrated wealth solutions, and a community-driven culture. Cetera's five-channel model and commitment to long-term advisor value provide a scalable blueprint for consistent, repeatable growth.

As of March 31, 2025, Cetera manages more than $554 billion in assets under administration and $246 billion in assets under management. Its award-winning Voice of the Customer program has captured more than 40,000 advisor reviews, with over 35,000 five-star ratings, giving Cetera a 4.8 out of 5 satisfaction score.

Learn more at www.cetera.com and follow Cetera on LinkedIn, YouTube, X, and Facebook.

"Cetera Financial Group" refers to the network of independent retail firms encompassing, among others, Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser, and the following FINRA/SIPC members: Cetera Advisors LLC, Cetera Wealth Services, LLC, Cetera Investment Services LLC (marketed as Cetera Financial Institutions or Cetera Investors), and Cetera Financial Specialists LLC. Located at 655 W. Broadway, 11th Floor, San Diego, CA 92101.

SOURCE Cetera Financial Group